A GOOD PAIR OF 'HUANGHUALI' 'OFFICIAL'S HAT' ARMCHAIRS QING DYNASTY, 17TH/18TH CENTURY |

each with round yokeback toprail supported on slender round stiles extending to the back legs, the bulging armrests supported on serpentine side posts and 'goose-neck' front posts, the S-curved backsplat above the rectangular seat set with soft mat, the feet joined by stretchers and a footrest above humpback aprons, the front legs with a humpback apron carved with foliage

Both chairs are in overall good condition with the exception of: Chair A: a re-attached 8 x 2 cm., section to the top of the right side back upright, a patch to the front upright where it joins to the arm, replaced seat and trimming strips; Chair B; a 14 x 1cm., section to the middle bottom edge of the yoke; a 2x1cm., section of patching to the top of the left upright, apron below footrest replaced, replaced seat and trimming strips. Both chairs would benefit from stabilising.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Also known as nanguanmaoyi (southern official's hat chair), this pair of armchairs is notable for its undulating silhouette of the crestrail, which is effectively echoed by the out-curved armrests and reinforced by the foliate scrolls along the front apron. See a smaller chair of this type, but carved with a central foliate medallion on the backsplat, illustrated in Sarah Handler, Ming Furniture in the Light of Chinese Architecture, Berkeley, 2004, p. 118; and another, sold at Christie’s London, 15th May 2018, lot 311. Further related examples were sold in our New York rooms, including two chairs rendered with plain aprons, the first from the collection of The Reverend Richard Fabian, 15th March 2016, lot 13, and the other, 12th September 2018, lot 290; and a pair, decorated with a shou medallion on the backsplat, attributed to the 17th/18th century, sold 16th March 2006, lot 280.